Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari
Tanzania is a land of endless wonders — from the Serengeti’s Great Migration to the Ngorongoro Crater’s lush landscapes and the elephant herds of Tarangire. The country’s wildlife spectacles unfold beautifully throughout the year, but knowing the best time to visit Tanzania for safari helps you enjoy the finest game viewing, best weather, and unforgettable experiences.
Tanzania has two main safari seasons: the dry season, which offers ideal wildlife viewing, and the green season, which brings vibrant scenery and fewer crowds. Each period provides a unique adventure, depending on what you want to see and experience.
The Dry Season (June to October) – Peak Safari Experience
The dry season is widely regarded as the best time to visit tanzania for safari. Days are sunny, vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around waterholes and rivers, making them easier to spot. Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari
Highlights of the Dry Season:
- Excellent game viewing in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Ruaha.
- Prime time for witnessing the Great Migration in the northern Serengeti, especially between July and September, when dramatic river crossings occur.
- Clear skies and comfortable temperatures, perfect for photography and outdoor adventures.
- Minimal risk of malaria due to low humidity and fewer mosquitoes.
Ideal For:
First-time safari travelers, photographers, honeymooners, and families.
Travel Tip: This is Tanzania’s high tourist season, so book lodges and camps several months in advance, especially for the Serengeti and Ngorongoro regions.
The Short Rains (November to December) – Green and Refreshing
After the long dry months, Tanzania experiences short, light rains that transform the landscape into a lush paradise. The showers are usually brief and fall in the afternoons, leaving plenty of time for safari activities.
Highlights of the Short Rains:
- Fewer tourists and lower lodge rates, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Lush green vegetation and dramatic skies — perfect for photography.
- The beginning of the calving season in the southern Serengeti, as wildebeests prepare to give birth.
- Excellent birdwatching opportunities as migratory species arrive.
Ideal For:
Travelers seeking quieter safaris, nature lovers, and photographers.
Travel Tip: Pack light waterproof gear for unexpected showers. Despite the rain, wildlife remains abundant and active.
The Green Season (January to March) – Calving and Predators
This is a special time in Tanzania, particularly in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region, where the Great Migration calving season occurs. Nearly half a million wildebeest calves are born between late January and March, attracting predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Highlights of the Green Season:
- Unforgettable wildlife action — predator-prey encounters are frequent.
- Clear skies after the short rains, with warm and pleasant temperatures.
- Fewer crowds and attractive accommodation deals.
- Ideal conditions for photographers due to the vibrant, green landscapes.
Ideal For:
Wildlife photographers, repeat safari travelers, and those seeking dramatic animal encounters.
Travel Tip: This period is perfect for a southern Serengeti safari or a beach-and-bush combination with Zanzibar.
The Long Rains (March to May) – Quiet, Lush, and Peaceful
From late March through May, Tanzania enters its long rainy season. Daily showers turn the plains into a sea of green, and many lodges close temporarily for maintenance. Though it’s not ideal for classic game drives, it’s a magical time for travelers who prefer solitude and lower rates.
Highlights of the Long Rains:
- Dramatic landscapes, full of life and color.
- Perfect for birdwatching and photography.
- Fewer tourists, providing a more intimate safari experience.
Ideal For:
Adventurous travelers, bird enthusiasts, and those seeking exclusive lodge experiences.
Travel Tip: Some roads become muddy or impassable during this season, but many camps in central and southern Tanzania remain accessible.
Month-by-Month Safari Highlights
| Month | Weather & Conditions | Wildlife Highlights | Recommended Destinations |
| January | Warm, green season begins | Wildebeest calving starts | Ndutu, Southern Serengeti |
| February | Green landscapes | Peak of calving season, predators active | Southern Serengeti, Ngorongoro |
| March | Beginning of long rains | Lush scenery, fewer tourists | Ngorongoro, Tarangire |
| April | Heavy rains | Migratory birds thrive | Selous, Ruaha |
| May | Rain eases | Tranquil, green plains | Central Serengeti |
| June | Start of dry season | Great Migration moves north | Western Serengeti, Grumeti |
| July | Cool and dry | River crossings begin | Northern Serengeti, Tarangire |
| August | Dry and clear | Peak migration season | Serengeti, Ngorongoro |
| September | Warm, excellent visibility | Big Five easily spotted | Serengeti, Ruaha |
| October | End of dry season | Elephants in Tarangire | Tarangire, Ngorongoro |
| November | Short rains start | Fresh vegetation, newborns | Serengeti, Lake Manyara |
| December | Warm and festive | Start of calving season | Southern Serengeti, Zanzibar |
Combining Safari with Zanzibar Beaches
The perfect way to end a Tanzania safari is with relaxation on Zanzibar Island. The dry seasons — June to October and December to February — offer ideal weather for both safaris and beach retreats. After days of adventure, unwind on Zanzibar’s white sands while enjoying its spice tours, coral reefs, and coastal charm.
Choosing the Right Time for You
- For the Great Migration: Visit June–September for river crossings or January–March for calving.
- For Birdwatching: November–April offers abundant birdlife and lush scenery.
- For Luxury Safaris: June–October provides the best weather and high-end experiences.
- For Fewer Crowds: March, May, and November offer peace and great value.
Plan Your Safari with Gorilla Trekking Expeditions
At GORILLA TREKKING EXPEDITIONS, we design personalized Tanzania safaris based on your travel style, interests, and the best seasonal highlights. Whether you dream of witnessing the Great Migration, exploring Ngorongoro’s crater floor, or relaxing in Zanzibar, we ensure every detail is perfect.
Inquire and book your Tanzania Safari with GORILLA TREKKING EXPEDITIONS — your trusted partner for tailor-made wildlife adventures, luxury safaris, and African beach escapes.